Oh, my dears, Patricia Poltera here, and I'm just so delighted to share this Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi pattern with you all, completely free! There’s something truly magical about bringing a little character to life with your own two hands, isn't there? This sweet bunny, with his charming overalls, striped shirt, and tiny rose, is designed to capture hearts, whether as a treasured gift or a special addition to your own collection. It’s your wonderful enthusiasm for crafting, your kind words, and the ways you choose to support my work through my Pattern Parlour that keep my crochet hooks merrily clicking away, allowing me to share these detailed patterns freely. So, thank you, from the bottom of my heart!
Materials You'll Need for Your Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi
Gathering your materials is like preparing your palette before painting – it sets the stage for a wonderful creation! I always recommend using a good quality yarn for amigurumi; it really does make a difference in the finished look.
Yarn Essentials
- Worsted Weight (Aran) Yarn:
- Light Beige: Approx. 100g (for head, body, ears, arms, legs)
- Mint Green: Approx. 50g (for overalls)
- Deep Red: Approx. 20g (for shirt stripes, heart, rose)
- Cream/White: Approx. 15g (for shirt stripes)
- Pink: Small amount of embroidery floss or thin yarn (for nose)
- Green: Small amount (for rose stem and leaf)
Hooks & Notions
- Crochet Hook: 3.0mm or 3.5mm (US size D/3 or E/4) – choose the size that gives you a nice, tight fabric to prevent stuffing from showing through.
- Safety Eyes: Two 6mm black safety eyes (always secure them well if gifting to small children).
- Stuffing: Polyester fiberfill (plenty of it for a firmly stuffed bunny!)
- Yarn Needle: A blunt tapestry needle for sewing pieces together and weaving in ends.
- Stitch Markers: Locking stitch markers are a lifesaver for working in the round.
- Scissors: Sharp ones for neat snips.
- Buttons: Two small (approx. 8mm) dark brown or maroon buttons for the overalls.
- Pins: T-pins or sewing pins are incredibly helpful for positioning pieces before sewing.
My 'Game Changer' Recommendations (Optional, but oh-so-helpful!)
- Small Pliers: For securing safety eye backs tightly – a little extra leverage goes a long way!
- Stuffing Tool: A wooden spoon handle or a stuffing stick can help you get stuffing into those tiny nooks and crannies.
- Pet Slicker Brush: If you're using acrylic yarn and want to give your bunny a slightly fuzzy, brushed look, a slicker brush can gently fluff the fibers. (Not typically used for this pattern, but a great tip for other projects!).
Skills Required & Techniques Demystified for Your Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi
Don't fret if some of these terms sound new; I've found that with a little practice, they become second nature. You've got this!
- Magic Ring (MR): This creates a tight, closed center for your amigurumi pieces, essential for preventing holes.
- Single Crochet (SC): The foundational stitch for amigurumi, creating a dense fabric.
- Increase (INC): Crocheting two single crochets into one stitch to expand your work.
- Decrease (DEC or Invisible Decrease - INVDEC): Crocheting two stitches together to reduce the number of stitches. I highly recommend learning the invisible decrease; it creates a much smoother, less noticeable reduction!
- Slip Stitch (SL ST): Used for joining rounds or finishing off.
- Chain (CH): The starting point for many pieces, and used to create spaces or straps.
- Fasten Off (FO): Cutting your yarn and pulling the tail through the last loop to secure your work.
- Working in the Round: Most amigurumi pieces are worked continuously in spirals, without joining rounds. A stitch marker is your best friend here!
- Color Change: Learning how to seamlessly switch yarn colors for a neat finish (especially for the striped shirt!).
- Back Loop Only (BLO) & Front Loop Only (FLO): Occasionally used for specific textures or edges; BLO means inserting your hook only into the back loop of the stitch, leaving the front loop free. FLO is the opposite.
A Note on Photos & Your Unique Sweetheart Bunny
While this pattern aims to help you create a bunny just like the one you've envisioned, remember that handmade items always have their own unique personality! Your tension, chosen yarn, and even how you stuff your bunny will make him truly one-of-a-kind. Embrace these charming little variations – they are a testament to your personal touch!
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The Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi Pattern
Oh, I just know you’re going to love stitching up this darling Sweetheart Bunny amigurumi! If you enjoy this free pattern, do pop over to Patricia Poltera’s Amigurumi Pattern Parlour for more exclusive PDF patterns, special tutorials, and other delightful surprises that help keep these free patterns coming your way. Now, let’s get to crocheting!
Important Notes Before You Begin:
- Work in continuous spirals unless otherwise stated. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning of each round.
- Stuff firmly as you go, especially for smaller pieces.
- Use invisible decrease (INVDEC) for smoother results.
- All stitch counts are in parentheses
()
at the end of the round.
Abbreviations:
- MR: Magic Ring
- SC: Single Crochet
- INC: Increase (2 sc in one stitch)
- DEC: Decrease (single crochet 2 stitches together, use invisible decrease)
- SL ST: Slip Stitch
- CH: Chain
- FO: Fasten Off
- BLO: Back Loop Only
- FLO: Front Loop Only
Head (Light Beige Yarn)
- R1: MR 6 SC (6)
- R2: [INC] x6 (12)
- R3: [SC, INC] x6 (18)
- R4: [2 SC, INC] x6 (24)
- R5: [3 SC, INC] x6 (30)
- R6: [4 SC, INC] x6 (36)
- R7: [5 SC, INC] x6 (42)
- R8: [6 SC, INC] x6 (48)
- R9-18: SC around (48) (10 rounds)
- Pro Tip: This is a great time to insert the safety eyes! Place them between R14 and R15, about 7-8 stitches apart, ensuring they're centered on the face. Secure the backs tightly.
- R19: [6 SC, DEC] x6 (42)
- R20: [5 SC, DEC] x6 (36)
- R21: [4 SC, DEC] x6 (30)
- R22: [3 SC, DEC] x6 (24)
- Start stuffing the head firmly here, shaping it nicely.
- R23: [2 SC, DEC] x6 (18)
- R24: [SC, DEC] x6 (12)
- R25: [DEC] x6 (6)
- FO, leaving a long tail for sewing. Finish stuffing and close the opening.
Ears (Make 2 - Light Beige Yarn)
- R1: MR 6 SC (6)
- R2: [SC, INC] x3 (9)
- R3: SC around (9)
- R4: [2 SC, INC] x3 (12)
- R5-12: SC around (12) (8 rounds)
- R13: [2 SC, DEC] x3 (9)
- R14-15: SC around (9)
- Flatten the ear and SC across the opening (4 SC) to close it. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Body (Light Beige, Cream, and Deep Red Yarn)
- R1: MR 6 SC (6) - Starting in Light Beige for the neck area.
- R2: [INC] x6 (12)
- R3:
[SC, INC] x6 (18) - R4: [2 SC, INC] x6 (24)
- R5: [3 SC, INC] x6 (30)
- R6: [4 SC, INC] x6 (36)
- R7: [5 SC, INC] x6 (42)
- R8: [6 SC, INC] x6 (48)
- R9-10: SC around (48) (2 rounds) - Change to Cream yarn at the end of R10.
- R11-12: SC around (48) (2 rounds) - Change to Deep Red yarn at the end of R12.
- R13-14: SC around (48) (2 rounds) - Change to Cream yarn at the end of R14.
- R15-16: SC around (48) (2 rounds) - Change to Deep Red yarn at the end of R16.
- R17-18: SC around (48) (2 rounds) - Change back to Light Beige yarn at the end of R18.
- R19: [6 SC, DEC] x6 (42)
- R20: SC around (42)
- R21: [5 SC, DEC] x6 (36)
- R22: SC around (36)
- R23: [4 SC, DEC] x6 (30)
- R24: [3 SC, DEC] x6 (24)
- R25: SC around (24)
- Stuff the body firmly. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Arms (Make 2 - Light Beige Yarn)
- R1: MR 6 SC (6)
- R2: [SC, INC] x3 (9)
- R3-12: SC around (9) (10 rounds)
- Lightly stuff the bottom 2/3 of the arm. Flatten the opening and SC across (4 SC) to close. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Legs (Make 2 - Light Beige Yarn)
- R1: MR 6 SC (6)
- R2: [INC] x6 (12)
- R3: [SC, INC] x6 (18)
- R4: [2 SC, INC] x6 (24)
- R5-8: SC around (24) (4 rounds)
- R9: [2 SC, DEC] x6 (18)
- R10: [SC, DEC] x6 (12)
- R11-16: SC around (12) (6 rounds)
- Stuff firmly. Flatten the opening and SC across (6 SC) to close. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Overalls (Mint Green Yarn)
- Waist: CH 25. Join with a SL ST to the first CH to form a ring. Be careful not to twist your chain!
- R1: CH 1, SC in each CH around. Join with SL ST to first SC. (24)
- R2-10: CH 1, SC around. Join with SL ST. (24) (9 rounds)
- Now to divide for the legs: Flatten the overall tube. Mark the center front and back stitches.
- Leg 1: CH 1, SC in the next 12 stitches (this forms one leg opening). Join with SL ST to first SC. (12)
- R1-6 (Leg 1): CH 1, SC around. Join with SL ST. (12) (6 rounds)
- FO.
- Leg 2: Attach yarn to the first unworked stitch after Leg 1 on the main overalls body. CH 1, SC in the remaining 12 stitches. Join with SL ST. (12)
- R1-6 (Leg 2): CH 1, SC around. Join with SL ST. (12) (6 rounds)
- FO.
- Bib: Count 8 stitches centered on the front of the overalls waist. Attach yarn to the 1st of these 8 stitches.
- R1: CH 1, SC in these 8 stitches. Turn. (8)
- R2-4: CH 1, SC in 8 sts. Turn. (8) (3 rounds)
- FO, weave in ends.
- Straps (Make 2): CH 15. FO, leaving a long tail on one end for sewing.
- Buttons (Make 2 - Dark Brown/Maroon Yarn):
- MR 6 SC. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Puffy Heart Appliqué (Deep Red Yarn)
- This heart is made by joining two small cups/half-spheres:
- Make 2 identical 'bumps':
- R1: MR 6 SC (6)
- R2: [INC] x6 (12)
- R3-4: SC around (12)
- FO on the first bump. For the second bump, DO NOT FO, continue to join.
- Joining and Shaping the Heart:
- From the working loop of the second bump, SC into any stitch of the first bump. SC around the first bump (12 SC), then SC around the second bump (12 SC). You now have 24 stitches joined together. (24)
- R5: [2 SC, DEC] x6 (18)
- R6: [SC, DEC] x6 (12)
- Lightly stuff the heart to give it puffiness.
- R7: [DEC] x6 (6)
- FO, weave tail through remaining 6 stitches and pull tight to close. Leave a long tail for sewing.
Rose (Deep Red Yarn)
- CH 25.
- R1: SC in 2nd CH from hook, [CH 2, skip 1 CH, SC in next CH] repeat across. You should have 12 CH-2 spaces.
- R2: In each CH-2 space: [SL ST, CH 2, 3 DC, CH 2, SL ST]. This forms the petals.
- FO, leaving a long tail for rolling. Starting from one end, tightly roll the strip of petals into a rose shape. Stitch the base together with the tail to secure.
Rose Stem & Leaf (Green Yarn)
- Stem: CH 8. SL ST back down the chain to create a narrow stem. FO.
- Leaf: CH 5. SC in 2nd CH from hook, HDC in next CH, DC in next CH, 3 DC in last CH. Now working down the other side of the chain: DC, HDC, SC. SL ST to the first SC to close. FO.
- Attach the leaf to the stem with a few stitches.
Assembly Instructions for Your Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi
This is where your little bunny truly comes to life! Take your time, use your pins, and enjoy the process.
- Embroider the Nose: With pink embroidery floss, sew a small, neat triangular nose centered on the head, just below the safety eyes. You can also add a small vertical stitch below the nose for a simple mouth if desired.
- Attach the Head to the Body: Pin the head securely to the top of the body, ensuring it’s centered and upright. Using the long tail from the head (or body), whip stitch the head to the body all the way around, stuffing any gaps firmly before completely closing.
- Attach the Ears: Flatten the ears. Pin them to the top of the head, slightly to the sides, aiming for a natural bunny ear placement. Make sure they are evenly spaced and facing forward. Whip stitch them securely in place.
- Attach the Arms: Pin the arms to the sides of the body, just below the neck/shoulder seam (where the light beige meets the shirt stripes). Ensure they hang nicely. Whip stitch them firmly.
- Attach the Legs: Pin the legs to the bottom of the body. You can place them slightly apart for stability. Whip stitch securely. Ensure the bunny can stand on his own once they're attached.
- Dress Your Bunny: Carefully pull the overalls up onto your bunny. Ensure the legs fit snugly.
- Attach Overalls Bib & Straps: Position the bib of the overalls so it sits nicely on the bunny’s chest. Stitch it in place along its bottom edge. Take the straps and sew the buttons onto the top corners of the bib. Then, bring the straps over the bunny's shoulders and sew them securely to the back waist of the overalls.
- Attach the Heart Appliqué: Pin the finished puffy heart to the center of the overalls bib. Stitch it securely in place, sewing along its outer edge.
- Attach the Rose: Attach the green leaf to the green stem. Then, sew the stem to the base of the rose. Finally, carefully position the rose in your bunny’s right hand and stitch it firmly in place so he’s holding it perfectly.
- Add a Tail (Optional): If you like, make a small pom-pom from light beige yarn or crochet a tiny ball (MR 6, R2: INC x6, R3: SC around, R4: DEC x6, stuff) and attach it to the bunny's back.
Tips & Tricks for Your Sweetheart Bunny Amigurumi
I've learned a few things over the years that make the amigurumi journey even more enjoyable. Here are some of my favorite insights!
Troubleshooting Common Crochet Challenges
- Gaps Between Stitches? If your stuffing is showing through, your tension might be too loose or your hook might be too large for your yarn. Try going down a hook size, or consciously trying to crochet tighter.
- Wobbly Head? Firm stuffing is key! Ensure the neck is very dense, and use plenty of pins during assembly to get a solid, even seam when attaching the head to the body.
- Counting Errors? Every stitch counts in amigurumi! Use multiple stitch markers at different intervals, or use a row counter (even just pen and paper!) to keep precise track of your rounds and stitches.
Customization Corner
- Change the Colors! Imagine this bunny in pastel blues, soft grays, or even vibrant rainbow stripes! Experiment with colors that speak to you.
- Facial Expressions: You could embroider sleepy eyes, a tiny smile, or even add blush with a bit of chalk or fabric paint.
- Accessories: Instead of a rose, perhaps a tiny carrot, a miniature book, or a little bow tie? Let your creativity bloom!
Gifting Your Handmade Masterpiece
- Personal Touch: Add a small, handwritten tag with care instructions. Mention that it's handmade with love!
- Safety First: If giving to a baby or toddler, always double-check that safety eyes are securely fastened. Consider embroidering the eyes instead of using plastic ones for extra security.
- Presentation Matters: A simple ribbon around his neck, a small gift box, or a tiny fabric bag can elevate your gift beautifully.
Frequently Asked Pattern & Finishing Questions for Sweetheart Bunny
Here are some common questions I hear that might help you along your way!
- "What if I can't get my stitches tight enough for amigurumi?" My dear, this is a common concern! The best approach is to try a crochet hook that is at least one size smaller than what your yarn label suggests. This will naturally tighten your stitches and create that lovely dense fabric perfect for amigurumi, preventing any stuffing from peeking through.
- "How do I achieve neat color changes for the striped shirt?" To make your color changes as seamless as possible, perform the last yarn over of the stitch before your color change with the new color. This pulls the new color through to complete the stitch, ready for the next round in the fresh hue.
- "My bunny's head seems a bit wobbly after attachment. What can I do?" Ah, the dreaded wobbly head! This usually means the piece wasn't stuffed quite firmly enough at the neck joint or sewn tightly enough. Before you finish sewing, make sure to add extra stuffing to the neck, pushing it in firmly. Then, take small, even stitches when attaching the head to the body, pulling each stitch taut. Sometimes, a few extra reinforcement stitches around the neck can also help stabilize it.
A Final Word & Caring for Your Adorable Sweetheart Bunny
And there you have it, my wonderful crocheters – your very own Sweetheart Bunny! Seeing these little characters come to life through your hands is the greatest reward for me, and I cherish every picture you share. Remember, your continued engagement and support, whether it's by sharing my free patterns, purchasing from my Pattern Parlour, or simply sending a kind note, make it possible for me to keep these detailed patterns freely available for our vibrant community. Happy stitching, my friends, and may your hooks always be merry!
Warmly, Patricia Poltera